Luis Angel Castillo and Filipino champion Melvin Jerusalem ahead of their WBC minimumweight title bout. –CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/WENDELL ALINEA
MANILA, Philippines—Luis Angel Castillo didn’t come all the way to the Philippines from Mexico just to go back home empty-handed.
Castillo is fighting outside the comforts of his home country for the first time as he challenges Filipino world champion Melvin Jerusalem for the WBC minimumweight title on Sunday at Mandaluyong City College gym.
“I know it’s my first time fighting away from Mexico and in the Philippines and I like it here,” Castillo said through an interpreter during a press conference on Thursday at Manila Hotel.
READ: Melvin Jerusalem banking on lessons from failed title defense
“I will carry his belt back to Mexico and it will be a great fight.”
WATCH: Jerusalem, Castillo face off ahead of their WBC minimumweight title clash on Sunday at Mandaluyong City College gym. | @MarkGiongcoINQ pic.twitter.com/IkuoKYXFMz
— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) September 19, 2024
Castillo, who boasts a perfect record of 22-0 with 13 knockouts, doesn’t see the fight going the distance.
“This will end by knockout. I came very prepared. I feel ready,” Castillo said.
The world title bout also adds another chapter to the storied Philippines vs Mexico rivalry in boxing.
READ: Mexican challenger tells Melvin Jerusalem to enjoy last days as champion
“I feel so much pride being part of that history. You know that when it’s Philippines versus Mexico it’s going to be a battle but our fight will be a war,” said Castillo.
The fight is the first world championship bout taking place in the Philippines since 2016.